Entries in organometallic synthesis
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The University of Kentucky Mass Spectrometry Facility (UKMSF), located in the Advanced Science and Technology Commercialization Center (ASTeCC), is home to a wide range of mass spectrometers, providing analysis using many different methods of sample introduction, ionization, and mass measurement.

Mass spectrometry is used in the characterization of compounds originating from organic and organometallic synthesis, isolation of natural products, as well as in the analysis of pharmaceuticals and their metabolites. The facility is also involved in characterization of high molecular weight biological compounds such as peptides, proteins, oligonucleotides, complex lipids, and carbohydrates, as well as synthetic polymers, by methods such as MALDI and ESI.

The Facility is supported by the University through the Office of the Vice President for Research, and provides a range of services to all University faculty, staff, and students.

What is Mass Spectrometry?

Mass spectrometry involves the measurement of the mass-to-charge ratio of ions. Fundamental components of mass spectrometers include a means of sample introduction, a method of generating gas-phase ions, a mass analyzer (with a vacuum system), and an ion detector. Modern mass spectrometers have a data system for instrument control and data output.

Services: The Facility provides a continuum of services, from routine analysis of single samples by well-established methods, to long-term collaboration on research projects. We are available for consultation, to assist in planning of experiments that will benefit from mass spectral analysis, to advise on analytical methodologies, and to aid in data interpretation. Users with a large volume of samples may be trained to use some of the instrumentation on a "self-service" basis. We encourage first-time users to visit before submitting their first sample, to ensure proper sample preparation and the highest data quality.

Dr. Lynn has over 25 years of experience as an analytical chemist and has managed mass spectrometry laboratories in industry and academia. He has experience with a wide variety of mass spectrometers and ionization techniques. His research focuses on application and theory of quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometers.

Dr. Goodman is responsible for the daily operation of the Facility. He first joined the Facility in 1990, when its initial major instrument (Kratos Concept IH) was delivered. He has been working with mass spectrometers since 1982, and has experience in a wide variety of applications (including fossil fuels, drug detection, environmental testing, and peptide characterization) and instrumentation.